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Lane Winslow #6
A Deceptive Devotion
Wedding bells, a grisly murder, and a defecting Russian spy bring drama to King's Cove in the newest Lane Winslow mystery, a series that the Globe and Mail calls "terrific."
A wedding is on the horizon for Lane Winslow and Inspector Darling. As one of the few Russian speakers in her community, Lane is obliged to act as translator and hostess for Countess Orlova, an elderly Russian woman who has tracked her missing brother to the Nelson area. Nelson PD investigates, but then the murder of a lone hunter in the hills above King's Cove takes top priority.
Darling works the case with a Constable Oxley--a newcomer to the area, assigned in Constable Ames' temporary absence--and a British agent contacts Lane to warn her to be on the lookout for a fleeing Russian defector. Bound by the Wartime Secrets Act, Lane is conflicted about keeping the information from Darling, especially when it begins to put a strain on their relationship.
Fans of Maisie Dobbs and the Kopp Sisters will delight in this rousing adventure of intrigue and espionage.
A wedding is on the horizon for Lane Winslow and Inspector Darling. As one of the few Russian speakers in her community, Lane is obliged to act as translator and hostess for Countess Orlova, an elderly Russian woman who has tracked her missing brother to the Nelson area. Nelson PD investigates, but then the murder of a lone hunter in the hills above King's Cove takes top priority.
Darling works the case with a Constable Oxley--a newcomer to the area, assigned in Constable Ames' temporary absence--and a British agent contacts Lane to warn her to be on the lookout for a fleeing Russian defector. Bound by the Wartime Secrets Act, Lane is conflicted about keeping the information from Darling, especially when it begins to put a strain on their relationship.
Fans of Maisie Dobbs and the Kopp Sisters will delight in this rousing adventure of intrigue and espionage.
10 pages, Audiobook
First published April 23, 2019
About the author
Iona Whishaw
17 books486 followersIona Whishaw has been a youth worker, social worker, teacher and an award winning High School Principal, who continued with her writing throughout her working life. Receiving her Masters in Creative writing from UBC, Iona has published short fiction, poetry, poetry translation and one children's book, Henry and the Cow Problem. The Lane Winslow mystery series is her first foray into adult fiction.
Iona was born in Kimberley BC, but grew up in a number of different places, including a small community on Kootenay Lake, as well as Mexico and Central America, and the US because of her father's geological work. She took a degree in history and education from Antioch College, and subsequent degrees in Writing at UBC and pedagogy at Simon Fraser University. Her own writing output took a brief back seat during her teaching career, but she shared her passion for writing by nurturing a love of writing in the students in English, Creative Writing, and Spanish classes. During the course of her career as a Principal in Vancouver she was awarded the Woman of Distinction in Education by the YWCA in 2010 and a Canada's Outstanding Principals award in 2012.
Her hobbies have included dance, painting, reading, and gardening. She currently is a vocalist for a small Balkan dance band in Vancouver, and is patiently waiting for her next opportunity to engage in her current pash, long distance, cross country rambling in England.
She is married, has one son and two grandsons, and lives in Vancouver with her artist husband, Terry Miller.
Iona was born in Kimberley BC, but grew up in a number of different places, including a small community on Kootenay Lake, as well as Mexico and Central America, and the US because of her father's geological work. She took a degree in history and education from Antioch College, and subsequent degrees in Writing at UBC and pedagogy at Simon Fraser University. Her own writing output took a brief back seat during her teaching career, but she shared her passion for writing by nurturing a love of writing in the students in English, Creative Writing, and Spanish classes. During the course of her career as a Principal in Vancouver she was awarded the Woman of Distinction in Education by the YWCA in 2010 and a Canada's Outstanding Principals award in 2012.
Her hobbies have included dance, painting, reading, and gardening. She currently is a vocalist for a small Balkan dance band in Vancouver, and is patiently waiting for her next opportunity to engage in her current pash, long distance, cross country rambling in England.
She is married, has one son and two grandsons, and lives in Vancouver with her artist husband, Terry Miller.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
January 2, 2020
I really enjoyed this book, I liked the range of characters and the mystery that emerged. As well I previously did not realize such a Russian connection in BC at this time in history, one of the reasons I love reading, there is always new things to learn. I look forward to the release of the next book in the series.
January 31, 2019
Another fantastic entry in the unique and compelling Lane Winslow series! Filled with intrigue, deception, twisted loyalties, and a touch of romance, readers will stand up and cheer.
November 13, 2022
I am loving this series! Everything works for me - the ensemble of characters, the setting, the time period. This one was particularly twisty.
July 2, 2019
Sixth novel in this Canadian series featuring the skilled talents of WWII British agent Lane Winslow.
Having chosen Canada's West Coast as her new postwar home, readers have been treated to colourful descriptives of the beauties of locale and quirks of neighbours' personalities. A richly familiar background for this sixth entry of the series offering a sense of coming home.
Appearance of previous characters lend an insider's view yet the espionage and intrigue offered captivate my attention afresh.
Adding romance and a wedding for Lane and Darling piques my interest and anticipation for their life together in King's Cove.
Once again, Iona Whishaw has me in pursuit of more Lane Winslow mysteries!
Having chosen Canada's West Coast as her new postwar home, readers have been treated to colourful descriptives of the beauties of locale and quirks of neighbours' personalities. A richly familiar background for this sixth entry of the series offering a sense of coming home.
Appearance of previous characters lend an insider's view yet the espionage and intrigue offered captivate my attention afresh.
Adding romance and a wedding for Lane and Darling piques my interest and anticipation for their life together in King's Cove.
Once again, Iona Whishaw has me in pursuit of more Lane Winslow mysteries!
April 20, 2019
This instalment and #4 (It Begins In Betrayal) (my introduction to this series) are by far my favourites. This one kept me wondering what was going to happen and kept me engaged the whole way along. My only complaint, it's a wee one, is that I find these a touch too drawn out and would like it if they wrapped up a little sooner. The people of King's Cove continue to delight me to no end!
April 23, 2019
How gorgeous is this cover?! I love the style and the colors they use for each book in the Lane Winslow series. This cover just makes me want to pick the book up and see what’s waiting for me inside. And the writing and story are just as fantastic as the cover.
First let’s start with the mystery – Lane Winslow has a lot going on in A Deceptive Devotion:
- A mysterious Russian countess shows up looking for her missing brother. As Inspector Darling tries to track down any leads, she stays with Lane; the countess only speaks Russian, and Lane is fluent.
- Lane and Inspector Darling are preparing for their upcoming wedding. But will Lane get cold feet before the day arrives?
- Ames is in Vancouver to take his Sergeant’s exam. His temporary replacement in Darling’s office is not measuring up.
- Unknown to Lane, a former Russian spy has defected and is making his way to Canada (and hopefully Lane) for safety.
- A local hunter in King’s Cove has gone missing – and is later found dead. Darling asks (okay, he tells) - Lane to leave this mystery to the local authorities. But of course, Lane follows her instincts and does some snooping on her own.
Whew. I told you Lane has a lot going on.
What makes Lane Winslow mysteries different from other historical mysteries? It’s the storytelling. In each book, Ms. Whishaw tells two stories – the mystery in the present, and the events in the past that led up to the murder. This narration gives the reader a foundation to understand the motivations of the crime, and give depth to both the victim and the guilty. Her writing style is just lovely and detailed, transporting you back in time to post-war Canada.
My favorite part of these books is Lane herself. She is an independent, strong woman. Lane is not afraid to stand up for herself and do what she thinks is right. She fights fiercely for those she cares about. She is logical and intelligent. In A Deceptive Devotion, we find Lane dealing with a personal issue – is she prepared to give up her independent lifestyle and share her life with Darling? It’s not that she doesn’t love him – but can she give up her solitude, her space, her individual routines?
If you love any of the following – strong female leads, historical mysteries, Jacqueline Winspear’s Maisie Dobbs – don’t miss this book (or this series). The characters, setting, and stories combine for a wonderful mystery.
From my review at Hidden Staircase.
Many thanks to TouchWood Editions for providing me with an advance copy of this book.
First let’s start with the mystery – Lane Winslow has a lot going on in A Deceptive Devotion:
- A mysterious Russian countess shows up looking for her missing brother. As Inspector Darling tries to track down any leads, she stays with Lane; the countess only speaks Russian, and Lane is fluent.
- Lane and Inspector Darling are preparing for their upcoming wedding. But will Lane get cold feet before the day arrives?
- Ames is in Vancouver to take his Sergeant’s exam. His temporary replacement in Darling’s office is not measuring up.
- Unknown to Lane, a former Russian spy has defected and is making his way to Canada (and hopefully Lane) for safety.
- A local hunter in King’s Cove has gone missing – and is later found dead. Darling asks (okay, he tells) - Lane to leave this mystery to the local authorities. But of course, Lane follows her instincts and does some snooping on her own.
Whew. I told you Lane has a lot going on.
What makes Lane Winslow mysteries different from other historical mysteries? It’s the storytelling. In each book, Ms. Whishaw tells two stories – the mystery in the present, and the events in the past that led up to the murder. This narration gives the reader a foundation to understand the motivations of the crime, and give depth to both the victim and the guilty. Her writing style is just lovely and detailed, transporting you back in time to post-war Canada.
My favorite part of these books is Lane herself. She is an independent, strong woman. Lane is not afraid to stand up for herself and do what she thinks is right. She fights fiercely for those she cares about. She is logical and intelligent. In A Deceptive Devotion, we find Lane dealing with a personal issue – is she prepared to give up her independent lifestyle and share her life with Darling? It’s not that she doesn’t love him – but can she give up her solitude, her space, her individual routines?
If you love any of the following – strong female leads, historical mysteries, Jacqueline Winspear’s Maisie Dobbs – don’t miss this book (or this series). The characters, setting, and stories combine for a wonderful mystery.
From my review at Hidden Staircase.
Many thanks to TouchWood Editions for providing me with an advance copy of this book.
October 9, 2019
More spy shenanigans and the development of our Kings Cove characters. I did guess most of what was going on fairly early on, so the mystery element wasn't 100% there for me :)
The way Whishaw writes relationships and character growth is so lovely and sweet without being oversentimental.
The way Whishaw writes relationships and character growth is so lovely and sweet without being oversentimental.
April 2, 2019
A Deceptive Devotion quite hook me from the start like most mystery books. I find myself more enthralled by the setting and secondary characters than Lane herself. Lane has the personality of flour, especially compared to Inspector Darling and Constable Ames. I had a difficult time believing Lane was an exceptional intelligence agent particularly when she took everything a stranger said at face value. Her interactions with Darling only highlighted the lack of vibrancy in her character and I had a hard time believing she was in love, not to mention about to be married. Despite my issues with Lane and the slow pace, the secondary characters truly saved this book for me. I adore the banter between Inspector Darling and Constable Ames. I would be happy to read a series that just follows those two and their begrudging bromance.
While A Deceptive Devotion can be read as a standalone, readers would benefit from reading the first five installments of the Lane Winslow Mysteries as there are many reoccurring characters and references to past cases. I will probably pick up the next book if Whishaw chooses to continue Lane’s story but I think this book would be a fitting end to her story. Now, I want Ames to have his shot in the spotlight! I recommend the book for fans of the mystery genre and/or those with a particular interest in the state of Canada in the mid-1940’s.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While A Deceptive Devotion can be read as a standalone, readers would benefit from reading the first five installments of the Lane Winslow Mysteries as there are many reoccurring characters and references to past cases. I will probably pick up the next book if Whishaw chooses to continue Lane’s story but I think this book would be a fitting end to her story. Now, I want Ames to have his shot in the spotlight! I recommend the book for fans of the mystery genre and/or those with a particular interest in the state of Canada in the mid-1940’s.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 18, 2019
I thank Tori Elliott, Marketing and Publicity at Touchwood Editions for the ARC of "A DECEPTIVE DEVOTION," by Iona Whishaw, given via the Jan 4 Shelf Awareness Pro Newsletter. I was not familiar with the author, although this is number six in the series.
My attention was drawn in and held from the start and never let go. I knew I had to go back and read the whole series, but neither my county libraries nor the next county had them, so I sent for the first five and binge read the entire series before donating them to my library.
Lane Winslow, an operative courier for British intelligence during the war, has moved to a quiet corner of western Canada in order to distance herself from the experience as much as she can. Still in her 20s, she is an unusual addition to her mostly older group of villagers, but that is just what she needs. That is, until a body is found on her property and she is arrested for murder and jailed on the basis of compelling evidence.
To get the most enjoyment, I suggest reading the series in sequence. They are:
1. A Killer in King's Cove
2. Death in a Darkening Mist
3. An Old Cold Grave
4. It Begins in Betrayal
5. A Sorrowful Sanctuary
6. A Deceptive Devotion
I loved every one of them and give 5 stars all around.
My attention was drawn in and held from the start and never let go. I knew I had to go back and read the whole series, but neither my county libraries nor the next county had them, so I sent for the first five and binge read the entire series before donating them to my library.
Lane Winslow, an operative courier for British intelligence during the war, has moved to a quiet corner of western Canada in order to distance herself from the experience as much as she can. Still in her 20s, she is an unusual addition to her mostly older group of villagers, but that is just what she needs. That is, until a body is found on her property and she is arrested for murder and jailed on the basis of compelling evidence.
To get the most enjoyment, I suggest reading the series in sequence. They are:
1. A Killer in King's Cove
2. Death in a Darkening Mist
3. An Old Cold Grave
4. It Begins in Betrayal
5. A Sorrowful Sanctuary
6. A Deceptive Devotion
I loved every one of them and give 5 stars all around.
October 13, 2026
This installment, the sixth book in the series set in British Columbia Canada after the war, finds Lane Winslow and Inspector Darling less than a month away from their wedding. They are planning a small, rather private affair, however, their friends, not having experienced such a celebration in their small community in years, are speculating about the event and enjoying the buildup. they are spiffing up their gardens, getting out the good china and linens, and baking up a storm. Lane is enjoying the peace and quiet of her little house, after her life as a British spy filled with drama, political secrets, paranoia and treachery, wondering what it will be like having Darling in her home full time. Although both feel deeply committed to their relationship, each has been living on their own, has an independent streak and wonders how their relationship will evolve.
Amid all the planning, shopping and preparations, two events occur which may interfere with their plans. Lane, who grew up in Latvia and speaks Russian is called by the Vicar who needs help communicating with an older, aristocratic looking lady who has arrived at his church and does not speak English. Lane learns the woman's name is Countess Orlova and she is looking for her brother. She had tracked him as far as Vancouver and since then to the Nelson area. She keeps pointing to a photograph, indicating he may be dead, but she wants to know what has happened to him. When Lane hears that the Countess has nowhere to spend the night, she offers her the guest suite in her home until the Vicar can find other accommodations.
Shortly afterwards Inspector Darling receives a missing person’s report from Cassie Brodie. Her husband Ray, an expert hunter, left home two days ago, but has not returned She is frantic, worried something has happened to him. Then Glenn Ponting, a geologist turned prospector, sees a riderless horse, spooked and panicky, bolting out of the underbrush near his property and searches for its lost rider. He discovers a body by a creek, near a clearing in the hills above King’s Cove, his throat brutally slit. The discovery sets off fear among everyone in the Cove, wondering if a killer is on the loose.
Constable Ames is in Vancouver taking the sergeant’s course and hoping to pass the exam. While there, Inspector Darling asks him to check in with the Vancouver police and inquire about the Countess's missing brother. As Ames does so, he learns that another Russian has turned up dead and visits the body in the morgue, but he is not the man Darling is looking for. Shortly afterwards, Ames is visited by two aggressive RCMP officers, wondering why he is asking about Russians, insinuating he is a spy and warning him they will keep an eye on him. Meanwhile while Ames is away, Darling has been assigned a temporary replacement from Ontario named Oxley, an arrogant, over confident young man who is not fitting in well with others at the station.
Initially Lane is happy to have a guest in her home. She learns about the Countess's early days living as an aristocrat in Russia and how her brother was among those who resisted the Communist revolution and so is now being pursued by Soviet agents. However, her visitor's prolonged stay soon begins to wear on Lane, with the ongoing obligations to make meals, entertain her guest and continually translate when they visit others. Thankfully, her guest enjoys long walks in the countryside, taking in the views and painting the various scenes of the gardens, mountains, forests and hills, gone for much of the day. But several small details and contradictions about the Countess niggle at Lane, she begins to have doubts about her guest and whether she really is who she says she is.
Meanwhile, Stanimir Apetekar, a Russian spy and former colleague of Lane’s father, is in the process of defecting to the West, hoping to retire to a small cottage in Britain. He holds important secrets and the Soviets, the British and the Canadians all want to secure him for their side. However, he is betrayed, his escape plan fails, he is picked up by the KGB and sent to a gulag in Siberia. Miraculously escaping during transit, he begins to make his way to Canada, where he knows he can trust Lane and hopes she will be able to help him.
Once again, Lane’s past as a British spy working in intelligence comes to haunt her. The long arms of Angus Dunn her deceptive and manipulative former lover, now director of counter intelligence at M15, continues to threaten her retirement in Canada, unable to let go of one of his most valuable agents.
Whishaw brings the two major plot lines together, always throwing in an unexpected twist and skillfully combining history, murder, misdirection, mystery and the beautiful B.C. landscape. Her settings cast a wide swath of time and country, going back as far as the 1800s and including locations as far flung as Moscow, London, Vladivostok, Vancouver and Ottawa.
In each book of this historical fiction series, Whishaw includes pieces of Canadian history that many may not know much about. In past installments she educated readers about British Home Children, the Doukhobors and the PTSD that affected those returning from the first World War. This novel includes aspects of events that occurred in the mid-forties and came to be known as the “The Gouzenka Affair (1945-46)”. At that time, Igor Gouzenko, a cipher clerk in the Soviet embassy in Ottawa and a lieutenant of the Soviet Main Intelligence Directorate (the GRU), defected to Canada. He brought with him a valuable code book, a list of Soviet agents already in the country and their plans to establish an extensive spy ring to steal nuclear secrets. Whishaw has used several elements of this true to life history to become part of her story.
Fans of Whishaw’s series always appreciate how she sums up each installment, tying up the threads of her plots and giving readers a satisfying conclusion. They never need a literary hook to get them to the next book, now fully invested in this small community in King’s Cove and interested to find out what will happen next.
Amid all the planning, shopping and preparations, two events occur which may interfere with their plans. Lane, who grew up in Latvia and speaks Russian is called by the Vicar who needs help communicating with an older, aristocratic looking lady who has arrived at his church and does not speak English. Lane learns the woman's name is Countess Orlova and she is looking for her brother. She had tracked him as far as Vancouver and since then to the Nelson area. She keeps pointing to a photograph, indicating he may be dead, but she wants to know what has happened to him. When Lane hears that the Countess has nowhere to spend the night, she offers her the guest suite in her home until the Vicar can find other accommodations.
Shortly afterwards Inspector Darling receives a missing person’s report from Cassie Brodie. Her husband Ray, an expert hunter, left home two days ago, but has not returned She is frantic, worried something has happened to him. Then Glenn Ponting, a geologist turned prospector, sees a riderless horse, spooked and panicky, bolting out of the underbrush near his property and searches for its lost rider. He discovers a body by a creek, near a clearing in the hills above King’s Cove, his throat brutally slit. The discovery sets off fear among everyone in the Cove, wondering if a killer is on the loose.
Constable Ames is in Vancouver taking the sergeant’s course and hoping to pass the exam. While there, Inspector Darling asks him to check in with the Vancouver police and inquire about the Countess's missing brother. As Ames does so, he learns that another Russian has turned up dead and visits the body in the morgue, but he is not the man Darling is looking for. Shortly afterwards, Ames is visited by two aggressive RCMP officers, wondering why he is asking about Russians, insinuating he is a spy and warning him they will keep an eye on him. Meanwhile while Ames is away, Darling has been assigned a temporary replacement from Ontario named Oxley, an arrogant, over confident young man who is not fitting in well with others at the station.
Initially Lane is happy to have a guest in her home. She learns about the Countess's early days living as an aristocrat in Russia and how her brother was among those who resisted the Communist revolution and so is now being pursued by Soviet agents. However, her visitor's prolonged stay soon begins to wear on Lane, with the ongoing obligations to make meals, entertain her guest and continually translate when they visit others. Thankfully, her guest enjoys long walks in the countryside, taking in the views and painting the various scenes of the gardens, mountains, forests and hills, gone for much of the day. But several small details and contradictions about the Countess niggle at Lane, she begins to have doubts about her guest and whether she really is who she says she is.
Meanwhile, Stanimir Apetekar, a Russian spy and former colleague of Lane’s father, is in the process of defecting to the West, hoping to retire to a small cottage in Britain. He holds important secrets and the Soviets, the British and the Canadians all want to secure him for their side. However, he is betrayed, his escape plan fails, he is picked up by the KGB and sent to a gulag in Siberia. Miraculously escaping during transit, he begins to make his way to Canada, where he knows he can trust Lane and hopes she will be able to help him.
Once again, Lane’s past as a British spy working in intelligence comes to haunt her. The long arms of Angus Dunn her deceptive and manipulative former lover, now director of counter intelligence at M15, continues to threaten her retirement in Canada, unable to let go of one of his most valuable agents.
Whishaw brings the two major plot lines together, always throwing in an unexpected twist and skillfully combining history, murder, misdirection, mystery and the beautiful B.C. landscape. Her settings cast a wide swath of time and country, going back as far as the 1800s and including locations as far flung as Moscow, London, Vladivostok, Vancouver and Ottawa.
In each book of this historical fiction series, Whishaw includes pieces of Canadian history that many may not know much about. In past installments she educated readers about British Home Children, the Doukhobors and the PTSD that affected those returning from the first World War. This novel includes aspects of events that occurred in the mid-forties and came to be known as the “The Gouzenka Affair (1945-46)”. At that time, Igor Gouzenko, a cipher clerk in the Soviet embassy in Ottawa and a lieutenant of the Soviet Main Intelligence Directorate (the GRU), defected to Canada. He brought with him a valuable code book, a list of Soviet agents already in the country and their plans to establish an extensive spy ring to steal nuclear secrets. Whishaw has used several elements of this true to life history to become part of her story.
Fans of Whishaw’s series always appreciate how she sums up each installment, tying up the threads of her plots and giving readers a satisfying conclusion. They never need a literary hook to get them to the next book, now fully invested in this small community in King’s Cove and interested to find out what will happen next.
April 22, 2019
The sixth installment in the Lane Winslow mystery series. A former British spy, Lane Winslow only wants to retire to Canada and start anew, but her past doesn’t seem to want to let her go. The story grabs you on the first few pages when a hunter is murdered. As the police race to catch the killer, another drama is playing out with Lane and her unexpected house guest.
A charming story with an intelligent heroine and endearing supporting characters set in an idyllic community. I love the interpersonal relationships between the residents of the small King’s Cove community. They’re a tight knit group who look out for one another. I also like the Police Constable, Ames. He’s an appealing character, with smarts and the ability to work well with the no nonsense Inspector Darling. A murder, a Russian Countess, and a wedding highlight this entertaining cozy mystery.
A charming story with an intelligent heroine and endearing supporting characters set in an idyllic community. I love the interpersonal relationships between the residents of the small King’s Cove community. They’re a tight knit group who look out for one another. I also like the Police Constable, Ames. He’s an appealing character, with smarts and the ability to work well with the no nonsense Inspector Darling. A murder, a Russian Countess, and a wedding highlight this entertaining cozy mystery.
January 7, 2020
Changing my previous rating. That's what I get for trying to save time and writing it before I'm finished.
About right after I wrote what is below, the author mostly quit that aggravating 'time travel' and as usual it was a good story.
Not enjoying this nearly as much as the others.
Multiple timelines going on and multiple stories, all of which switch horses with no notice at all. It's sometimes unclear what is happening to whom, and when. Especially if you have to put the book down for a while and do something else, as most of us will have to do.
The type of story that was attempted here is not the author's forté, and I think she made a real dog's dinner of it. However, I do enjoy the characters and the setting so will hang in and see if she reverts to business-as-usual in the next book.
About right after I wrote what is below, the author mostly quit that aggravating 'time travel' and as usual it was a good story.
Not enjoying this nearly as much as the others.
Multiple timelines going on and multiple stories, all of which switch horses with no notice at all. It's sometimes unclear what is happening to whom, and when. Especially if you have to put the book down for a while and do something else, as most of us will have to do.
The type of story that was attempted here is not the author's forté, and I think she made a real dog's dinner of it. However, I do enjoy the characters and the setting so will hang in and see if she reverts to business-as-usual in the next book.
March 29, 2022
This book series is one of my very favourites! Each character has a unique and interesting personality, Iona, the author, does a great job of adding depth to all of the members of this community.
I’m writing this review on the most recent book that I’ve finished, but my praise is for the entire series.
The mysteries keep you guessing, and engaged without being too complicated, the books are easy to follow without being dull. Thoroughly an enjoyable escape.
I enjoyed this series, characters, and setting so much that we did a camping tour of the Kootenays and followed in Lanes footsteps!
I’m writing this review on the most recent book that I’ve finished, but my praise is for the entire series.
The mysteries keep you guessing, and engaged without being too complicated, the books are easy to follow without being dull. Thoroughly an enjoyable escape.
I enjoyed this series, characters, and setting so much that we did a camping tour of the Kootenays and followed in Lanes footsteps!
October 12, 2020
As Lane and Darling plan their wedding and Ames is in Vancouver taking an exam for a promotion (while helping with one of Darling’s investigations, as well), British-Soviet Cold War intrigue is invading King’s Cove and threatening the lives of Lane and anyone who gets in their way. At one point it gets a little confusing about who is directing the bad guys. Is the poor little old Russian lady who has taken up residence in Lane’s house really just looking for her lost brother, or is she a more sinister character? Once the bad guys are vanquished, Lane and Darling are able to carry on with their wedding plans, much to the delight of the regular King’s Cove characters, and it sounds as charming as one might imagine. I like happy endings.
October 23, 2024
If you haven’t tried this terrific series set in 1940s Nelson, British Columbia, it’s time to give it a try. Author Whishaw gets better with every book. I’ve reviewed a few of them, so you can find them on my blog, and am happy to report I thoroughly enjoyed this one. It’s now a beautiful September in King’s Cove, matching the spectacular fall we enjoyed as I read this. The same characters are here – ex-British spy Lane Winslow, her fiancé RCMP inspector Max Darling, Const. Ames (in Vancouver for most of the book, taking his sergeant’s exam), Lane’s bestie Angela, neighbours Gladys and Mabel and Kenny and all the others we’ve grown to enjoy. Lane’s ability to speak Russian makes her the obvious contact when an elderly Russian countess arrives in Nelson in search of her missing brother, and she stays in Lane’s guest room, much to Darling’s consternation. Also in King’s Cove, a hunter’s horse shows up without the rider, and soon the missing man’s body is found. An old love triangle suggests a possible suspect. False alibis, international intrigue, the gorgeous Kootenay scenery and pending nuptials – it all makes for an enjoyable cosy mystery, perfect as the weather cools and cementing Whishaw’s Winslow series as one I continue to confidently recommend. My thanks to the Grand Forks (B.C.) & District Public Library for including this title in its adult mystery collection; you can also borrow it electronically in e-book format.
December 23, 2021
Lane Winslow and Inspector Darling have decided to get married, though they are shy of telling their friends and neighbors about it. Meanwhile, Lane has invited a Russian emigre, an aristocrat still on the run from the Bolsheviks, to stay with her while she is in the area looking for her missing brother. Darling is dealing with a new constable, as his usual aide Ames is taking a course in prospect of his promotion. When a hunter is found dead in the area, attention turns to his turbulent marriage. Meanwhile, though, we know that the Soviet spy who had been a colleague of Lane's father is trying to reach her in Canada to turn himself in, as agents try to stop him.
May 14, 2026
Perhaps my favorite of this series so far. The mysteries and intrigues continue with a larger role going to the Inspector’s assistant, Ames.
Ames provides a perspective on the action which is quite unique with whimsy and brilliance.
This is an author and series I could read again as if revisiting and reuniting with a dear friend.
Ames provides a perspective on the action which is quite unique with whimsy and brilliance.
This is an author and series I could read again as if revisiting and reuniting with a dear friend.
August 13, 2024
This is one of my favourites in this series so far. A deeply layered mystery that uncovers a bit more of Lane's past. The Russian Revolution is seamlessly woven into the present day setting, and it is so nice to see Lane embraced and loved by her little community.
March 20, 2022
All of the storylines, past and present, converge nicely in this one.
June 8, 2023
A good story in the series. I didn't like this one quite as much as the others, but still good. 3/5 stars.
January 18, 2025
Wow. Honestly, the book took me longer than usual to get through the first half-ish, but I think that’s just because of the mood I was in, not the content of the book. I LOVED the ending of this book, for multiple reasons. Firstly, the mystery, specifically near the end, was thrilling. Couldn’t put the book down and quite literally lost track of time. And at the end my heart was just so… *sigh*…. y’know? I love these characters and I love the life lessons and the growth and their relationships with each other. Can’t wait to read the next book. 4.75 stars.
February 27, 2025
Another excellent book in this series.
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June 6, 2021International intrigue continues to play a significant role in the sequence of books virtually set near Nelson, British Columbia, but evolving on a stage that is global and still very much in recovery from World War II. Elements of history play a large role. Igor Gouzenko, in particular, lurks behind this book, as do people such as Kim Philby. The deceptiveness of appearances is a major theme, and it seems that the only devotion which is not somewhat deceptive is that between the principal characters, Winslow and Darling.
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October 1, 2020Loved this book! intricate plot, well-told. Kept me engaged from start to finish. Unfortunately I read it out of order. Now that I know there are five books to the series, I plan to read them all. Iona Whishaw has discovered a compelling heroine. Highly recommend it.
August 3, 2020
I rarely hit 5 stars. I think this one deserves it. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
July 16, 2022
ok but again… how did lane not see that orlova was suspicious??? as usual with these books I enjoyed the character dynamics but it dragged a little
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2025
The perspective and timeline jumped around a lot in this one. It made it a little hard to follow at times. Still an enjoyable storyline.
January 25, 2025
3.5. I love escaping into the world of Lane and Darling. In this book Lane and Darling have decided to get married. While they’re planning that a hunter is killed execution style -throat cut- up in the mountains behind town. At the same time a Russian refugee,an old woman arrives and ends up staying with Lane who is the only one who can communicate with her. This Russian refugee Orlova supposedly is looking for her lost brother as they are refugees from the communist revolution and have escaped to Shanghai and are now in northern Canada. Darling has a new police officer who is replacing Ames who is in Vancouver studying for his sergeants license. This new police officer Oxley is kind of a jerk- arrogant and up to no good. It appears that the murder was done by the hunter’s friend who was having an affair with the hunters wife and this is solidified when Oxley finds a weapon at his boat repair shop. Meanwhile Lanes Russian guest Orlova likes to take long walks with her suitcase and also is a watercolor painter of some talent and is making paintings of the views all around Kings Cove. Into this comes Stanislov Aptekar who was defecting to Britain but was picked up by the Soviets and sent to Gulag before he could get out of Russia. He manages to escape and makes his way to Canada to contact Lane. It turns out that Angus Dunn betrayed him in an effort to get information from the Soviets to keep his job and remain relevant in the British intelligence. Oxley is a double agent, unknown to the Canadians, who has been sent with Orlova, also a Soviet agent, to capture and return
Aptekar to the soviet union where he will go end his days in a gulag. Lane discovers this about Orlova when she learns the suitcase contains radio equipment and that Oxley also has a similar suitcase. It turns out that Orlova and Aptekar were lovers when they were in there early 20s and she had his child a little girl who died. Her love for him is triumphed by her belief in the communist dream. Of course there’s a last-minute encounter in which Lane manages not to be shot by Orlova and to escape Oxley taking her with the car to Russia as Darling and Ames arrive on the scene. A wedding does happen in Kings Cove. Lane wears a blue taffeta dress and Darling a new grey suit that matches his eyes. As for the Hunter’s murderer- it was Orlova who was forced to kill him when he comes across her radio equipment high on the hilltop.
Aptekar to the soviet union where he will go end his days in a gulag. Lane discovers this about Orlova when she learns the suitcase contains radio equipment and that Oxley also has a similar suitcase. It turns out that Orlova and Aptekar were lovers when they were in there early 20s and she had his child a little girl who died. Her love for him is triumphed by her belief in the communist dream. Of course there’s a last-minute encounter in which Lane manages not to be shot by Orlova and to escape Oxley taking her with the car to Russia as Darling and Ames arrive on the scene. A wedding does happen in Kings Cove. Lane wears a blue taffeta dress and Darling a new grey suit that matches his eyes. As for the Hunter’s murderer- it was Orlova who was forced to kill him when he comes across her radio equipment high on the hilltop.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2021
I do enjoy this series. Once again, we find Lane in her beautiful home near Nelson B.C. She now has a new worry. She is engaged to Chief Inspector Darling. Not only do I get mystery and mayhem in this book but I also get a romance.
In this story it is not Lane who finds a dead body (usually she does find the bodies) but the body is near where she lives so of course she does become involved.
Lane has been asked to provide a temporary shelter to an old Russian woman who has arrived in Nelson looking for her brother. Lane is asked because she speaks Russian and is all the old lady can speak. .
Lane takes the Russian into her home much to the dismay of Chief Inspector Darling who is afraid that the old lady will still be there after he and Lane are married. This is not the only concern that comes up regarding the marriage of Lane and the inspector and it seems that the relationship is on a rocky road before it happens. Will true love win out?
This story also involves espionage in that an old acquaintance of Lane’s from a previous book is trying to escape from Russia and defect to Britain. We get a lot of information about spies in Canada after World War II. Lane is a former spy for Britain. She has come to Canada to put that life behind her, but it keeps popping up.
I did find this book a bit confusing until I got into the rhythm of it. There were flashbacks to the 1890’s to 1920’s and during the war and the most recent past a month before the present time (September 1947)
Also in this story is Constable Ames who next to the Chief Inspector is my secondary hero. Ames is in Vancouver attending courses to become a Sergeant. He is such a likeable young man. He is the right-hand man for Chief Inspector Darling and the two have a lovely bromance.
In this story it is not Lane who finds a dead body (usually she does find the bodies) but the body is near where she lives so of course she does become involved.
Lane has been asked to provide a temporary shelter to an old Russian woman who has arrived in Nelson looking for her brother. Lane is asked because she speaks Russian and is all the old lady can speak. .
Lane takes the Russian into her home much to the dismay of Chief Inspector Darling who is afraid that the old lady will still be there after he and Lane are married. This is not the only concern that comes up regarding the marriage of Lane and the inspector and it seems that the relationship is on a rocky road before it happens. Will true love win out?
This story also involves espionage in that an old acquaintance of Lane’s from a previous book is trying to escape from Russia and defect to Britain. We get a lot of information about spies in Canada after World War II. Lane is a former spy for Britain. She has come to Canada to put that life behind her, but it keeps popping up.
I did find this book a bit confusing until I got into the rhythm of it. There were flashbacks to the 1890’s to 1920’s and during the war and the most recent past a month before the present time (September 1947)
Also in this story is Constable Ames who next to the Chief Inspector is my secondary hero. Ames is in Vancouver attending courses to become a Sergeant. He is such a likeable young man. He is the right-hand man for Chief Inspector Darling and the two have a lovely bromance.
January 8, 2023
This has been a fun audio book series for me to follow. I listened to all the other ones before and after this one because of the library's reservation system. The characters are likeable and Ames has a more interesting part to play in this one. And of course the idea of a wedding gets everyone in a dither.
It is totally unbelievable that Lane worked in intelligence during the war. She tends to be the nice, warm and friendly neighbor (without suspicion) that everyone adores. On the other hand, the reader is suspicious right off the bat so the ending has very little surprise. She does seem to know how to act in a dangerous situation and is quite the feminist in many ways.
It is hard to tell why Darling likes her so much except for the fact that he admires her beauty. I just wish she had a major flaw so we could tell that he really loves her for her intelligence and spunk. But maybe that's the time period. It is tiresome that his name is Darling and they go around using darling as an endearment. Why not sweetie or honey?
The books tend to lack descriptions. I can't tell you what Ames and Darling actually look like. There isn't a very detailed description of the local scenery either except that it is 'beautiful'. I have a view of the Lake Washington and the Cascades and I think describing it as 'beautiful' all the time wouldn't do it justice. I would like to imagine more what the area around Lane Winslow's house looks like besides looking it up on my atlas.
In any case, this is a cozy story with a bit of intrigue in a historical setting and the idea of sex and violence is eluded to but not described in any detail. It reminds me of the small town doings in TV shows like the Brokenwood Mysteries.
It is totally unbelievable that Lane worked in intelligence during the war. She tends to be the nice, warm and friendly neighbor (without suspicion) that everyone adores. On the other hand, the reader is suspicious right off the bat so the ending has very little surprise. She does seem to know how to act in a dangerous situation and is quite the feminist in many ways.
It is hard to tell why Darling likes her so much except for the fact that he admires her beauty. I just wish she had a major flaw so we could tell that he really loves her for her intelligence and spunk. But maybe that's the time period. It is tiresome that his name is Darling and they go around using darling as an endearment. Why not sweetie or honey?
The books tend to lack descriptions. I can't tell you what Ames and Darling actually look like. There isn't a very detailed description of the local scenery either except that it is 'beautiful'. I have a view of the Lake Washington and the Cascades and I think describing it as 'beautiful' all the time wouldn't do it justice. I would like to imagine more what the area around Lane Winslow's house looks like besides looking it up on my atlas.
In any case, this is a cozy story with a bit of intrigue in a historical setting and the idea of sex and violence is eluded to but not described in any detail. It reminds me of the small town doings in TV shows like the Brokenwood Mysteries.
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